Tebogo Mashigo and Lebohang Nkaki secure AmaZulu-Polokwane Betway Premiership draw

Both sides showcased attacking intent, but neither could find the decisive blow to claim all three points.

AmaZulu, under the guidance of coach Arthur Zwane, struck first in the seventh minute. Tebogo Mashigo latched onto a precise through ball from Tshepang Moremi, rifling a right-footed shot into the top centre of the net past Polokwane's goalkeeper Brian Bwire.

The early goal ignited the home crowd, but Polokwane, led by coach Phuti Mohafe, responded with relentless pressure.

Polokwane dominated possession in the first half, holding 55% of the ball and registering nine goal attempts. Thato Letshedi and Nyakala Raphadu tested AmaZulu's goalkeeper Richard Ofori with sharp efforts, but Ofori's acrobatic saves kept the hosts ahead.

AmaZulu, with 45% possession, relied on quick counters, with Moremi and Bayanda Thabede narrowly missing chances to extend the lead.

The second half saw Polokwane's persistence pay off. In the 53rd minute, Bonginkosi Dlamini's clever movement in the box drew a foul from Thembela Sikhakhane, earning a penalty.

Lebohang Nkaki stepped up, calmly slotting a right-footed strike into the top left corner to level the score at 1-1. The goal shifted momentum, with Polokwane continuing to press, as substitute Mokibelo Ramabu's blocked shot highlighted their intent.

AmaZulu fought back, introducing Ethan Brooks, Mondli Mbanjwa, and Hendrick Ekstein to inject fresh energy. Brooks and Ekstein combined for several promising moves, but Polokwane's defence held firm.

In stoppage time, AmaZulu came agonisingly close to a winner when Ramahlwe Mphahlele's header from Riaan Hanamub's cross struck the crossbar, leaving the home side frustrated.

The match ended with AmaZulu holding 52% possession and 12 goal attempts, while Polokwane's 14 attempts reflected their attacking ambition. Both sides displayed resilience, but defensive solidity ensured the spoils were shared.

The result leaves AmaZulu sixth in the Betway Premiership with 34 points from 27 matches, while Polokwane sit seventh with 33 points from 26 games. Both teams remain in the hunt for a top-four finish, setting the stage for more gripping encounters in the race for continental qualification.

This draw showcased the Premiership's competitive edge, with AmaZulu's flair and Polokwane's tenacity making for a memorable spectacle.